We’d have another excuse to take pleasure in our each day cup of tea or small piece of darkish chocolate, as a brand new research from the College of Surrey has discovered that naturally occurring compounds known as flavan-3-ols – present in cocoa, tea, apples and grapes – might enhance blood strain and the well being of our blood vessels.
The analysis, printed within the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, analyzed knowledge from 145 randomized managed research, and located that common consumption of flavan-3-ols can result in a discount in blood strain readings, notably in folks with elevated or hypertension. In some circumstances, the typical blood pressure-lowering results had been similar to these seen with some drugs.
Flavan-3-ols had been additionally discovered to enhance the operate of the endothelium – the interior lining of blood vessels – which is essential for general cardiovascular well being. This enchancment occurred independently of blood strain modifications, suggesting a broader constructive impression on the circulatory system.
The findings are encouraging for these searching for accessible methods to handle their blood strain and help their coronary heart well being by means of pleasant dietary modifications. Incorporating small quantities of generally consumed meals like tea, apples, darkish chocolate, or cocoa powder right into a each day balanced weight loss program might present useful quantities of flavan-3-ols.
Whereas not a alternative for prescribed drugs or medical recommendation, together with extra flavan-3-ol-rich meals in a each day routine could possibly be a beneficial addition to a wholesome way of life, particularly for these with increased blood strain. These are findings that, though promising, require ongoing investigation.”
Professor Christian Heiss, lead-author of the research and Professor of Cardiovascular Medication, College of Surrey
